Broncos have leadership void to fill on offense

Someone is needed to step up following Manning's retirement

Peyton Manning's retirement announcement on March 7 has left the Broncos searching for a new leader on offense. (Joe Amon / The Denver Post)

ENGLEWOOD — Peyton Manning left the building — and left a void. While Manning's last season was his worst, his presence arguably was never more important as the Broncos marched to their first Super Bowl crown since 1998.

In his absence, who will take over a leadership role of the Broncos' offense? The possible answers vary. The solution is fluid as the Broncos attempt to improve the most disappointing unit on their championship team.

"I think obviously it starts with Demaryius (Thomas). It starts with myself. And it starts with a few linemen," veteran wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders said. "I think it's tough to call that out right now because it's so early. The true leaders will definitely stick out."

Denver Broncos quarterbacks make debut during OTAs

In the ideal world, the quarterback represents the hub of the universe, the singer who makes the band work in concert. The Broncos possess quarterbacks capable of leading in the experienced Mark Sanchez, the smart Trevor Siemian and passionate Paxton Lynch. But the Broncos don't know who will be starting. A quarterback can't lead with a clipboard and a cap on. The next three months offer a platform for a spokesman to emerge. On the best teams, it happens organically. In sports, you can't give yourself a nickname and you can't announce you are a leader.

"It's a little early to tell. They'll rise," offensive coordinator Rick Dennison said. "I think our guys are good. They work hard together. We'll find somebody to follow. We'll be in good shape."

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A year ago, Thomas promised to take on a bigger role in the locker room. However, he climbed up hill after missing the offseason while bracing for a new deal. Trying to do too much too soon, Thomas dropped passes, and then the typically private player dealt with weekly questions regarding his mother's release from prison. Normalcy has returned this offseason, which could help him take on added responsibility.

"I don't have to worry about my mom. She's good. Contract is over with. I am here now trying to learn and not rushing it like when I came back last year," Thomas said. "It's all about football."

Sanders sees a difference in Thomas. He's more comfortable, and he is the longest-tenured Broncos offensive player after Manning's exit and offensive tackle Ryan Clady's trade to the New York Jets.

"He missed out on all of the OTAs (organized team activities)," Sanders said. "No matter what you say, that messes with you mentally, because your schedule is off. Obviously the media is talking about you not being there and you go through a lot. He's back to his normal self. He's out here in OTAs. He's being a leader, and he wants to be the guy on this team."

Teammates have called Sanchez a natural leader. He has taken steps since being acquired in March, conducting a passing camp in California and taking the offensive linemen to a Rockies game.

Running back C.J. Anderson attracts followers because of his football IQ and attention to detail. Manning earned high marks for setting a standard in practice and communicating with players off the field. During games, Sanders was a vocal catalyst. There were multiple instances last season when he provided a jolt in the huddle, which was accepted given his toughness and production.

"Of course I welcome it," Sanders said. "I think I welcomed it last year. Obviously, it was kind of overlooked by Peyton because he's the ultimate leader. But I am always here for anybody. I'll do anything for my teammates."

Day 2 of OTAs doesn't require one player to be the man on offense. It is a work in progress. But for the offense to progress, it will need a leader who can work the room and the huddle.

"No, it doesn't have to be the quarterback," Dennison said. "There have been years where he has not been that guy. But generally speaking, the quarterback has to direct the show, so it's more likely. ... Somebody will rise for it."

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